That said, my first reaction to OO was, I bet that this really appeals to algebraically inclined people. This impression has been strengthened over time (as well, several people familiar with both have agreed with me).

Thank you tilly. That gives me some insight onto myself and fuel for thought. Perhaps that sheds light on my tendency toward reasoning and modelling in a more prototyped-based-OO manner (regardless of language) when working with OO (falling more on the analytical side of the dichotomy myself).